United Way continues to reach goal with community's ongoing support

Published 6:00 pm, Sunday, January 25, 2009

"We did it once more!" Sandra Aven, 2008 campaign chair for Plainview Area United Way, recently proclaimed after Plainview met its fund-raising goal. "Since 1975, we have never failed to meet our goal. It has to be a record in the state, or anywhere else for that matter."

Last year, Plainview businesses and area residents showed their generosity and support of PAUW by contributing cash and pledges totaling $454,047.64, surpassing the established goal of $450,000. These funds support 13 local agencies that address health and human service needs in this community. The agencies have programs for emergency care, family and child care, care for the elderly and individuals, and youth and health care programs.

Only 15 percent of funds is designated for office and campaign expenses.

"We usually operate on less than that, closer to 10-12 percent," says Mary Anna Self, executive director of PAUW. "We work very hard to cut costs where we can and utilize the large pool of volunteer workers that we have established over the years. Our volunteers are what make PAUW the great organization that it is."

Aven agrees, saying, "We could not succeed without the support of the businesses, both large and small, and the residents of this community, including our farmers and ranchers. This year especially, with the economic situation we all face, we found that Plainview people are indeed generous. Most gave at the same levels as they have in the past, and a few even gave more. Plainview people are the best."

PAUW is governed by a board of directors of local community leaders. Next year's campaign will be led by Rick Turner of American State Bank.